Adjustable footbed system for footwear

ABSTRACT

This invention relates to an adjustable shoe footbed system which allows for varying the width of a shoe. The footbed system consists of an upper member and a set of detachable lower members of various thicknesses. The effective width of a shoe can be varied by the proper choice of lower member.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present invention is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Design patentapplication Ser. No. 29/250,821 filed Dec. 1, 2006.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an adjustable footbed system forfootwear which allows for varying the internal dimensions of a shoecavity. More specifically, the present invention relates to anadjustable footbed system for footwear wherein the user can vary theeffective width of the shoe cavity by detachably affixing wedge membersof varying thickness to the lower surface of the insole.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Shoes are produced and offered for sale in a myriad of styles andfashions to supply consumer demand for variations of fashion taste andfunction. Human feet also come in a variety of shapes and sizes ofvarying widths and lengths. For each shoe model offered for sale,manufacturers have traditionally produced and offered a variety ofsizes, with varying lengths and widths, in order to accommodate manydifferent sizes and shapes of feet.

Shoe sizes traditionally have two dimensions, length and width. Thewidth of a shoe is measured across the ball of the foot at the level ofthe upper surface of the footbed of the shoe. In the U.S., standard shoewidth sizes are denoted by letters of the alphabet, for example B, C, D,etc, wherein C is wider than B, and D is wider than C, etc. For eachchange in the width size, for example from B to C, there is ¼ inchchange in shoe width, for example from 3½″ to 3¾″.

The length of the shoe is measured from the rear peripheral edge of theheel area to the front peripheral edge of the forefoot area.Traditionally, men's shoe sizes are sold in about 11 sizes correspondingto the length, from about size 7 to a size 12 in half-length increments.Generally, for each increase in foot size, for example 9 to 10, thestandard with of the footbed, as measured across the ball of the uppersurface of the footbed, increases about ¼ of an inch. Shoe widths aretraditionally manufactured and sold in about 7 widths, from “A” to“EEE.” This means that for each model sold the shoe manufacturer mustproduce approximately 77 different sized shoes to meet consumer demand.

A disadvantage of manufacturing and distributing a wide range of sizedshoes for one specific model is the increased cost of manufacturing anddistribution. For example for a single shoe model offered in 77different sizes, the manufacturer must retool production machines foreach different size, the distributor must efficiently and effectivelyorder, stock, and deliver the proper number of sized shoes, andmanufacturers and retailers alike must accurately predict consumerdemand for different sized shoes in order to avoid costly overruns orshortages. Ideally shoe producers would achieve a balance betweenproducing enough different sized shoes to satisfy consumer demand, whileat the same time minimizing overruns, retooling, and otherinefficiencies associated with manufacturing and distributing 77different sized shoes for each shoe model.

One known solution to this logistical problem is to reduce the numbershoe widths manufactured and offered for sale. By limiting shoes to twowidths per each shoe length size sold, e.g., medium and wide; or threewidths, e.g. narrow, medium and wide; shoe manufacturers can limit therisks of incorrectly forecasting consumer demand, and thereby reduceunsold inventory, and increase goodwill, while at the same timeproviding three different options for shoe width for each sized shoe.This solution also avoids the cost and time spent retooling machines,designing different sized shoes, supplying retails stores with a varietyof shoe sizes, and losses resulting from unsold shoes.

A disadvantage of decreasing the number shoe widths manufactured foreach shoe model sold is increased consumer dissatisfaction resultingfrom the decrease in shoe width options offered for sale. By decreasingthe number of sized shoes offered for each model the manufacturer mayincrease manufacturing and distribution efficiencies; however it does soat the risk of decreased demand and alienation of its consumer base.

A further disadvantage of reducing the number of shoe widthsmanufactured and sold is that the previously discussed manufacturing anddistribution inefficiencies associated with producing and distributing awide range of sized shoes still exists albeit to a lesser extent. Amanufacturer selling three widths for every length size still mustmanufacture, distribute, and stock over 30 different sizes of a specificshoe model.

Several systems and methods have been developed to further overcome thedisadvantages associated with manufacturing and distributing a widerange of sized shoes. For example U.S. Patent Application Nos.2006/0107552 to Clark et al. and 2006/0107553 also to Clark et al. teacha system and method for altering the effective width size of the shoefootbed wherein a cartridge can be releasably attached to the forefootregion of the footbed to increase the effective thickness of theforefoot region of the footbed. Increasing the thickness of the forefootregion of the footbed with a cartridge decreases the effective width ofthe shoe as measured across the ball of the shoe because the interiorwidth of the shoe cavity decreases as a function of increasing distancefrom the footbed. Employing this system, a shoe manufacturer can makeand distribute a single width shoe for each shoe length size sold, andthe consumer can customize the shoe width by selecting the correct widthcartridge to insert. These systems decrease the disadvantages associatedwith manufacturing and distributing a range of sized shoes, while at thesame time satisfying consumer demand for varying width shoes for eachlength size sold.

A disadvantage of the known insertable cartridge systems is that thefoodbeds and associated cartridges are specific to individual shoemodels, and are not readily used in other shoe models, or brands of asimilar length. In other words, existing cartridge-footbed combinationsare specific to a certain shoe model, size, and brand, and sold to theconsumer with that specific product. These systems increase costsbecause the shoe manufacturer must distribute specific cartridge-footbedcombinations simultaneously with the associated shoe models. Thisincreasing stocking and distribution cost. These systems also limitconsumer choice because the consumer can not purchase the system a latertime and use it in a shoe of his own choice. A related disadvantage isthat there is no generic adjustable system that can fit a wide varietyof shoe models, and brands.

Another disadvantage of known systems is that they do not disclose areliable means for releasably attaching the cartridge to the insole. Inknown systems the cartridge may inadvertently detach from the insoleduring use, or when the user is removing the combination from the shoe.

Another disadvantage of known systems is that sheer forces acting on theshoe sole during use, especially during heavy use such as in athleticscause the footbed to laterally slip relative to the cartridge resultingin an uneven alignment of the cartridge and footbed. The lateralslippage further results in an unstable footbed. Uneven alignment of thecartridge and the footbed results in an increasingly uncomfortable anduneven footbed surface for the user. The uneven alignment furtherincreases the width of the shoe, the very problem the system is designedto alleviate. Finally, a cartridge footbed system that frequentlybecomes misaligned requires the user to remove the shoe, remove thecartridge-footbed combination, realign the cartridge-footbedcombination, reinsert the cartridge-footbed combination, and put theshoe back on the foot.

Another disadvantage of known systems is that the shoe can not be wornwithout the cartridge. If the cartridge is removed, the footbed lackssufficient stability and an even footbed surface, specifically in theforefoot region, to support the user's foot. This results in an uneven,unstable, uncomfortable shoe and poses safety risk to the user of theshoe.

Another disadvantage of known systems is that cartridge-footbedcombinations have inadequate, if any, ventilation. It is currently knownto use vertical ventilation channels in the insole to cool the footduring use of the shoe. Known systems do not disclose the use ofventilation channels in the cartridge-footbed combination that arealigned to form a continuous ventilation channel. The lack ofventilation results in a super heater footed, and leads to discomfort,poor support, and food odor.

Another disadvantage of known systems is that the means for attachingthe wedge member to the insole creates an uneven footbed surface becausethe attaching means, located under the footbed, are of a differentdensity than the surrounding material. Furthermore, the attaching meansare generally affixed to the upper surface of the wedge member and thelower surface of the footbed, an object of a given thickness sandwichedbetween the footbed and the cartridge. Although the surface of thefootbed may appear relatively flat, the different density material oradditional thickness material creates the sensation of an uneven oruncomfortable footbed when foot pressure is applied.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide anadjustable footbed system for footwear wherein the user can increase thethickness of the footbed, and thereby decrease the effective width ofthe shoe.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an adjustablefootbed system comprising an insole and a wedge member, wherein theupper surface of the wedge member is detachably affixed to the lowersurface of the insole to increase the effective thickness of the footbed, and thereby decrease the effective width of the shoe.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a system andmethod for packaging and distributing an adjustable footbed systemwherein a wedge member-insole combination is not specific to shoe modeland/or brand and can be used in many different types of shoes.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a system andmethod for packaging and distributing an adjustable footbed wherein theinsole is compatible with wedge members of varying thickness and theuser can select a wedge member of specific thickness to achieve adesired shoe width.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an adjustablefootbed system comprising a wedge member and an insole, wherein thewedge member is detachably affixed to the insole with a hook and loopfastener system.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an adjustablefootbed system comprising a wedge member and an insole, wherein theupper surface of the wedge member further comprises protrusions, and thelower surface of the insole comprises voids for receiving theprotrusions, and the interlocking protrusions prevent lateral slippingof the wedge member relative the insole during use.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an adjustablefootbed system comprising a wedge member and an insole, wherein theinsole can be used without the wedge member.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an adjustablefootbed system comprising a wedge member and an insole, wherein thewedge member-insole combination have ventilation channels passingvertically through the footbed, and the ventilation channels in theinsole are in fluid communication with the ventilation channels in thewedge member.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an adjustablefootbed system wherein the footbed surface evenly supports the user'sfoot.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an adjustablefootbed system wherein the wedge member and the insole have matchingnotches in their sides, and wherein said notches mate with associatednotches on the interior of the shoe upper to prevent the wedgemember-insole combination from moving into shoe cavity during use.

These and other objects are achieved in one embodiment of presentinvention for an adjustable footbed system which will accommodate avariety of foot widths and lengths. The invention is based on theobservation that the effective shoe width is measured across the ball ofthe upper surface of the insole. In shoe construction an upper isgenerally affixed to an outsole to form a shoe cavity. The upper can bedesigned, and generally is, so that the width of the shoe cavitydecreases as a function of increasing height as measured from theoutsole. The present invention allows the user to adjust the effectivewidth of the shoe by increasing the thickness of the insole and therebydecreasing the effective width of the footbed.

A removable insole of elastomeric foam, or other suitable material, isdetachably affixed to a wedge member. In the preferred embodiment of thepresent invention the insole is equivalent in length to the interiorlength of the shoe cavity as measured from forefoot to heel. The wedgemember is approximately ⅓ to ⅞ the length of the insole. When the wedgemember is detachably affixed to the insole, the front area of theinsole, and the front area of the wedge member are aligned. Theperipheral edge, or outline, of the wedge member is symmetric to that ofthe insole with the proviso that in the outline the heel portion of thewedge member is a missing. As mentioned above the wedge member isapproximately a ⅓ to ⅞ outline of the insole. The advantage of havingwedge member that is not equal in length to the insole is that thethickness of the heel of the footbed does not increase with the additionof the wedge member, a situation which could potentially lead to anunstable and loose fitting shoe.

The thickness of the wedge member changes uniformly from approximately0.5 mm nearest the heel to approximately 0.6-30 mm in the front area ofthe wedge member. In some embodiments the thickness of the wedge memberis constant from the middle area of the wedge member to the forefootarea of the wedge member. The combined thickness of the wedge member andthe insole will determine the height of the footbed, specifically theheight in the front area of the footbed and the middle area of thefootbed. Similar to the insole, the wedge member is also preferablyconstructed of elastomeric foam, preferably of a higher density thanthat of the insole.

By increasing the thickness of the insole of the shoe, the effectivewidth of the shoe, as measured across the ball of the upper surface ofthe insole decreases. The decrease is due to the fact that the width ofthe shoe cavity decreases as a function of increasing height as measuredfrom the outsole.

Alignment of the wedge member relative to the insole is achieved by aform fitting relationship between the lower surface of the insole, andthe upper surface of the wedge member. Both members have a substantiallysimilar curvature, and when fit together provide a means of alignment.Alignment of the wedge member relative to the insole is further achievedby a means of detachably affixing the wedge member to the insole, forexample with a hook and loop fastener.

Alignment of the wedge member relative to the insole is further achievedin some embodiments by means of ridges protruding from the upper surfaceof the wedge member, and associated voids in the lower surface of theinsole for receiving the protrusions. In some embodiments theprotrusions are aligned down the centerline of the wedge member so thatthe protrusions are received proximal to the means of detachablyaffixing the wedge member to the insole. In other embodiment theprotrusions are located near the forefoot region of the wedge member,and the associated receiving voids are similarly located in the lowersurface of the insole.

The method of attachment of the wedge member to the upper member shouldbe one which meets a number of criterions. Foremost, the method ofattachment should be innocuous and not affect the overall comfort of theshoe. The method of attachment should be reusable. The method should benonspecific in that the attachment would allow an upper insole member tobe able to attach to a variety of lower members of varying thicknesses.In one embodiment of the invention, the method of attachment is a hookand loop fastener such as Velcro®.

This invention and its particular features and advantages will becomemore apparent from the following detailed description considered withreference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates an adjustable footbed system for footwear forimproving the overall fit of a particular shoe without modifying theexterior appearance of the shoe.

FIG. 2 is a top, front, and left side perspective of an adjustablefootbed system for footwear in accordance one embodiment of theinvention showing a top, front, and left side perspective view of aninsole of the footbed system for footwear which is positioned above awedge member of the footbed system for footwear also shown in a top,front and left side perspective view.

FIG. 3 is a clam shell or hinge perspective view of an adjustablefootbed system for footwear in accordance with one embodiment of theinvention wherein the wedge member is shown from a top, front, and leftside perspective view, and wherein the insole is shown in a bottom,front, and left side perspective view. The wedge member and the insoleare shown in a clam shell arrangement for the purpose of showing themeans for preventing lateral slippage of the wedge member relative tothe insole.

FIG. 4 is a top, front, and left side perspective view of an adjustablefootbed system for footwear in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent invention wherein the wedge member is shown detachably affixedto the lower surface of the insole.

FIG. 5 is front cut away perspective view of an adjustable footbedsystem for footwear in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention wherein the upper, shoe cavity, insole, wedge member, andoutsole are shown. The ridge protrusions on the upper surface of thewedge member, and the associated receiving voids on the lower surface ofthe insole are further shown.

FIG. 6 is a top view of an adjustable footbed system and method fordistributing said footbed for footwear in accordance with one embodimentof the invention wherein an insole is shown with a variety ofaccompanying wedge members with increasing thickness, and wherein theuser can choose a specific wedge member to achieve the desired effectivewidth.

FIG. 7 is a top, front and left side perspective view of an adjustablefootbed system for footwear in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent invention showing a top, front and left side perspective view ofan insole of the footbed system for footwear which is positioned above awedge member of the footbed system for footwear also shown in a top,front and left side perspective view.

FIG. 8 is a top, front, and left side perspective view of an adjustablefootbed system for footwear in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent invention wherein the wedge member is shown detachably affixedto the lower surface of the insole.

FIG. 9 is a top plan view of the insole in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a bottom plan view of the insole in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a left side elevation of the insole in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a right side elevation of the insole in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a top plan view of a wedge member in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a bottom plan view of a wedge member in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a left side elevation view of a wedge member in accordancewith one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a right side elevation view of a wedge member in accordancewith one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the presentinvention in which the insole is positioned above and adjacent to thewedge member of the adjustable footbed system for footwear.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Referring to FIGS. 1-7 an embodiment of an adjustable footbed system forfootwear 12 in accordance with the present invention is shown. Referringspecifically to FIG. 5 a cutaway of one embodiment of the presentinvention is shown. The adjustable footbed system for footwear 12includes an outsole 20 and an upper 22. The upper 22 is affixed to theoutsole 20 to form a shoe cavity 28. The upper 22 maybe affixed to theoutsole 20 by any known means in the art, such as stitching or adhesive.

Referring specifically to FIG. 5, the proposed invention furtherincludes an insole 30, and a wedge member 60. The wedge member 60 islocated above the outsole 20 and below the insole 30. The insole 30 islocated above the outsole 20 and above the wedge member 60. Both thewedge member 60 and the insole 30 are located in the shoe cavity 28. Itshould be understood that the adjustable footbed system for footwear 12may include additional components. For example, the system may include asock liner, a midsole, multiple insoles, multiple wedge members, shoelaces, and other components.

It should further be understood that for the purpose of this disclosure,the Applicant defines term ‘insole’ broadly, so as to include anyfootbed member insertable in the shoe cavity 28 to support a user'sfoot. It should be understood, for example, that in some embodiments ofthe present invention the insole may be a sock liner, or midsole, or anyother kind of removable footbed known in the art.

Referring to FIG. 5, the upper 24 is constructed so that the shoe cavity28 becomes narrower as a function of increasing distance from an uppersurface 21 of the outsole 20. In this instance shoe cavity 28 widthrefers to the dimension across the ball of the foot, as opposed to thelength of the shoe cavity 28, measured from a heel to forefoot. Forexample, at a distance of 0.0 inches from the outsole 20, the shoecavity 28 is at its widest, and the distance between the vertical wallsof the upper 25 is at its greatest. The width of the shoe cavity 28decreases as a function of increasing distance from of outsole 20. Forexample, ¼ inch above the outsole 20 the width of the shoe cavity 28 isnarrower than the width of the shoe cavity 28 at the outsole 20. Thisrelationship between shoe cavity 28 width and increasing distance fromthe outsole 20 continues, until such point where the vertical walls ofthe upper 25 meet to form the top wall 29 of the shoe cavity 28, oruntil such point where the vertical walls of the upper 25 meet a commonshoe tongue 27 that forms the top wall 29 of the shoe cavity 28. Therelationship between shoe 10 width and distance from the outsole 20allows the user to adjust the effective width of the shoe 10 byincreasing and decreasing the height of the insole 30 in the shoe cavity28 relative to the outsole 20.

Referring to FIG. 2 the insole 30 includes a forefoot area 40, a middlearea 38, and a heel area 36. The insole 30 further includes an uppersurface 32, and a lower surface 34. The insole 30 has a thickness thatmay vary along the insole 30. For example the insole 30 is thinner inthe forefoot area 40, and thicker in the heel area 36. It is preferredthat the thickness of the insole 30 increases in the middle area 38 ofthe insole 30, such that there is a gradual transition from the thinnerforefoot area 40 to the thicker heel area 36. The sides of the insole 30in the heel area 36 are thicker then the center of the heel area 36 ofthe insole 30, forming a cup like surface on the upper surface 32 of theheel area 36 of the insole 30. The thickness variation in the heel area36 of the insole 30 helps contour the insole 30 to the heel of theuser's foot. The thickness variation of the insole 30 may further form acurvature. The curvature is used to align a similarly curved wedgemember 60.

The insole 30 further has a peripheral edge 42 such that the insole 30is of a shape which can support a human foot. The shape of the insole 30and the shape of the peripheral edge 42 maybe designed to accommodate aleft foot or a right foot. It should be understood that the designs andinventions disclosed herein apply equally to both left foot fitted shoesand right foot fitted shoes, regardless of whether a right footembodiment is shown or described herein, or a left foot embodiment isshown or described herein.

Preferably the insole 30 is constructed from elastomeric foam. It isfurther preferable that the insole 30 is constructed from theelastomeric foam sold in the field under the brand name Ortholite.However, it should be understood that the insole 30 may be constructedfrom any material or combination of materials known in the field or anysuitable material for forming an insole 30. For example the insole 30may include ethyl vinyl acetate foam, known in the art as EVA or simplyacetate. It should further be understood that the insole 30 may beconstructed from multiple materials, or the insole 30 may be constructedfrom a singe material.

Referring to FIG. 3 the insole 30 includes a means of detachablyaffixing a wedge member 60 to the lower surface of the insole 34. Themeans for detachably affixing the wedge member 60 to the insole 30should be innocuous and not affect the overall comfort of the wearer.The means of attachment should be reusable. The means of attachmentshould be nonspecific in that the attachment would allow an upper insole30 to be able to attach to a variety of wedge members 60 of varyingthicknesses.

In some embodiments the means for detachably affixing the wedge member60 to the insole 30 is a hook and loop fastener system 45, such asVelcro®. The lower surface of the insole 34 includes either a hookcomponent and/or a loop component 44 of a hook and loop fastener system45. The fastener component 44 may be affixed to the lower surface of theinsole 32 by adhesive, stitching, or any other means known in the art.It should be understood that the wedge member 60 may be detachablyaffixed to the insole 30 with any suitable means, such as a zipper,adhesive tape, snaps, form fitting components or any other means fordetachably affixing the wedge member 60 to the insole 30 known in theart.

Referring to the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, a bottom view of an insole30 is shown, wherein the insole 30 includes a hook and loop fastenercomponent 44. The fastener component 44 may be of any shape, and of anysize. The fastener component 44 may be either a hook component or a loopcomponent. The fastener component 44 may further be located at anylocation on the lower surface of the insole 34 wherein the upper surfaceof the wedge member 62 contacts the lower surface of the insole 34 whenboth components are inserted into the shoe cavity 28. In the embodimentshown in FIG. 3 the fastener component 44 is square, and approximately1″ by 1″. The fastener component 44 is located on the lower surface ofthe insole 34 between the forefoot area of the insole 40 and the middlearea of the insole 38, along the centerline of the insole 30.

Referring to FIG. 2 and FIG. 5 the adjustable footbed system forfootwear 12 further includes a wedge member 60. The wedge member 60includes an upper surface 62 and a lower surface 64. The wedge member 60further includes a rear area 66, a middle area 68, and a front area 70.The wedge member 60 has a length that is approximately between ⅓ and ⅞the length of the insole 30 as measured from the forefoot of the insole40 to the heel of the insole 36.

The wedge member 60 has a thickness that may vary along its length. Forexample in the particular embodiment disclosed in FIGS. 1-7 thethickness of the wedge member 60 is greater at the front area of thewedge member 70 and lesser at the rear area of the wedge member 66.Preferably, the thickness of the wedge member 60 is constant between thefront area of the wedge member 70 and the middle area of the wedgemember 68. However, it is preferable that the thickness of the wedgemember 60 gradually decreases from a middle area of the wedge member 68to a rear area of the wedge member 66.

It is preferred that the thickness of the rear area of the wedge member66 is approximately 0.6 mm and that the thickness of the wedge member 60increases to a constant thickness at the middle area of the wedge member68. The thickness of the middle area of the wedge member 68 and frontarea of the wedge member 70 may be as great 3.0 cm or greater; howeverthe thickness of the middle area of the wedge member 68 and front areaof the wedge member 70 varies from wedge member 60 to wedge member 60.The middle area of the wedge member 68 and the front area of the wedgemember 70 increase the effective height of the forefoot area of theinsole 40 and middle area of the insole 38 when the wedge member 60 isdetachably affixed to the insole 30, and the wedge member-insolecombination 90 is inserted into the shoe cavity 28. As mentioned abovethe thickness of the insole 30 gradually decreases between the middlearea 38, and the rear area 36. This decrease in thickness allows thewedge member 60 to fit well with insole 30 and provide an even footbedsurface 92, especially when the thickness of the insole 30 decreasesfrom the heel area of the insole 36 to the forefoot area of the insole40.

It should be understood, that many different variations of wedge member60 thicknesses are envisioned, and in fact varying wedge member 60thickness, and providing the user with a variety of wedge members 60having different thickness is a fundamental concept of the presentinvention. By detachably affixing thicker wedge members 60 to the lowersurface of the insole 34, the distance of the footbed 92 surface to theoutsole 20 increases, and the effective width of the footbed 92decreases. However, by detachably affixing a thinner wedge member 60 tolower surface 34 of the insole 30, the distance of the footbed surface92 to the outsole 20 decreases, and the effective width of the footbed92 increases. It should be understood that the wedge member 60 may be ofany thickness, and that a range of wedge members 60 may have varyingthicknesses to allow for the proper increase in footbed 92 height alongthe desired length of the footbed 92.

Referring to the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIGS. 1-7the wedge member 60 has a peripheral edge shape similar to that of theinsole 30 along the length of the wedge member 60. It is preferred thatwhen the wedge member 60 and the insole 30 are detachably affixed theperipheral edge 42 of the forefoot area of the insole 40 is aligned withthe peripheral edge 72 of the front area of the wedge member 70.Referring to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, the wedge member 60 and the insole 30have the same peripheral edge 42, 72 shapes when aligned according tothe preferred embodiment above. This alignment serves multiple purposes.First, it provides a wedge member-insole combination 90 that can fit theinterior contours of the shoe cavity 28. Further, the matching shape ofthe insole 30 and the wedge member 60 provides for a constant increasein the height of the footbed 92 from the outsole 30 across the desiredheight increase area. Finally the same peripheral edge 42, 72 shapes ofthe wedge member and the insole provide even support in the footbedsurface 92. If for example the wedge member did not have the sameperipheral edge as the insole in the area of desired height increase,foot pressure on the footbed 92 would create an uneven and uncomfortablefootbed surface 92. It should be understood that wedge members 60 withvarying peripheral edge 72 shapes may by used, so long as each wedgemember 60 provides the desired height increase of the footbed 92 withinthe shoe cavity 28.

Preferably the wedge member 60 is constructed from elastomeric foam. Itis further preferable that the wedge member 60 is constructed using anelastomeric foam sold in the field under the brand name Ortholite.However, it should be understood that the wedge member 60 may beconstructed from any material or combination of materials known in thefield or any suitable material for forming a wedge member 60. Forexample the wedge member 60 may further include ethyl vinyl acetatefoam, known in the art as EVA or simply acetate. It should be understoodthat the wedge member 60 may be constructed from multiple materials, orthe wedge member 60 may be constructed from a singe material.

Referring to FIG. 2 the wedge member 60 includes a means of detachablyaffixing the wedge member 60 to the lower surface of the insole 34. Themeans for detachably affixing the wedge member 60 to the insole 30should be innocuous and not affect the overall comfort of the wearer.The means of attachment should be reusable.

In some embodiments the means for detachably affixing the wedge member60 to the insole 30 is a hook and loop fastener system 45, such asVelcro®. The upper surface of the wedge member 62 includes either a hookcomponent 74 and/or a loop component 74 of a hook and loop fastenersystem 45. The fastener component 74 may be affixed to the upper surfaceof the wedge member 62 by adhesive or stitching, or any other meansknown in the art. It should be further understood that the wedge member60 may be detachably affixed to the insole 30 using any suitable means,such as a zipper, adhesive tape, snaps, form fitting components or anyother means for detachably affixing such components known in the art.

Referring to the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, a top view of a wedgemember 60 is shown, wherein the wedge member 60 includes a hook and loopfastener component 74. The fastener component 74 may be of any shape,and of any size. The fastener component 74 may be either a hookcomponent 74 or a loop component 74. The fastener component 74 mayfurther be located at any location on the upper surface of the wedgemember 62 where the upper surface of the wedge member 62 contacts thelower surface of the insole 34. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 thefastener component 74 is square, and approximately 1″ by 1″. Thefastener component 74 is on the upper surface 32 of the middle area 38of the wedge member 60.

In one embodiment of the present invention the adjustable footbed systemfor footwear 10 is sold to the user in a package comprising a leftinsole 30, a right insole 30, multiple left wedge members 60 of varyingthickness, and multiple right wedge members 60 of varying thickness.FIG. 7 shows one possible combination of wedge members 60 and an insole30 that may be sold to a user. Such packages may be sold to the usertogether with a purchase of a shoe. For example, the adjustable system10 maybe included in the shoe box by the manufacturer. In otherembodiments of the present invention, a method of selling such systemsis disclosed wherein the insole 30 and wedge members 60 are sold to theuser separate from the shoe. For example the insole 30 and the wedgemembers 60 comprise an after market product.

In either example of selling the adjustable footbed system for footwear12 above the shoe 10 may include an additional insole, sold initiallywith the shoe 10. It is preferred that the user removes this insolebefore inserting an after market adjustable footbed insole 30 andassociated wedge member 60. However, it should be understood that aninsole 30 with a wedge member 60 detachably affixed maybe inserted intothe shoe cavity 28, and placed upon an existing insole 30.

After purchasing the system, the user can calibrate the adjustablefootbed system for footwear 12 to achieve the desired effective shoewidth. For example the user can first wear the shoe 10 to determine theeffective width of the shoe 10 with an insole 30, but without any wedgemembers 60 inserted into the shoe 10. It should be understood that theinsole 30 described herein, can be worn in the shoe without a wedgemember 60. After determining the baseline width of the shoe, the usercan detachably affix wedge members 60 of varying thickness to the insole30 and then again try the shoe 10. As the thickness of the selectedwedge member 60 increases, the effective width of the shoe 10 willdecrease. The user can perform multiple iterations of this calibrationtechnique until the user achieves the wedge member 60 and insole 30combination that provides the desired effective footbed 92 width. Itshould be understood that the user may desire to use a wedge member 60having a specific thickness in one foot, and a wedge member 60 having adifferent thickness in the other foot. It should further be understood,that the user may periodically perform this calibration procedure tocorrect changes to the footbed 92 width resulting from use of the shoe10.

It is preferable to provide an even or level footbed 92 wherein whendownward foot pressure is exerted on the footbed 92, the pressure isevenly distributed. Any irregularities in the footbed surface 92 orcomponents of the insole 30 or wedge member 60, such as varying densitycomponents or irregular variations in thickness have the effect ofcreating an uneven surface. It is therefore preferable to minimize theeffect of any components between the footbed surface 92 and the outsole20, such as a means for detachably connecting the wedge member 60 to theinsole 30. In one embodiment of the present invention the hook and loopfastener components 44, 74 affixed to the lower surface of the insole 34and the upper surface of the wedge member 62 are embedded into eitherthe lower surface of the insole 34 or upper surface of the wedge member62. In some embodiments it is preferred that the upper surface of eitherfastener components 44, 74 protrude slightly from either the uppersurface of the wedge member 62 or the lower surface of the insole 34.

The hook and loop fastener components 44, 74 may create an unevenfootbed surface 92 because the components are located on the uppersurface of the wedge member 62 and the lower surface of the insole 34.Each fastener component 44, 74 necessarily has a thickness, and theaddition of these two components 44, 74 in between the insole 30 and thewedge member 60 provides an increased area of thickness equivalent tothe thickness of each fastener component 44, 74 less any overlap. Thisincreased thickness may create uneven or undesirable bump sensation inthe user's foot. One embodiment of the present invention overcomes thisdisadvantage by embedding the fastener components 44, 74 within thewedge member 60 or within the insole 30. The fastener components 44, 74are embedded at such a distance wherein the hook or loop fastenercomponents 44, 74 protrude from the surface to the extent necessary toprovide an effective means of affixing the components, and at the sametime limit the effect of the fastener components 44, 74 on the bottom ofthe foot. By embedding the hook and loop fastener components 44, 74 amore even footbed surface 92 is achieved.

FIGS. 1-7 show a further means of decreasing the effect of the unevenfootbed surface 92 resulting from the use of the hook and loop fastenercomponents 44, 74 on the upper surface of the wedge member 62 and thelower surface of the insole 34. For example FIG. 2 shows the use of oneor more support surfaces 76 protruding from the wedge member 60 in anarea proximate to the hook or loop fastener component 74 wherein thesupport protrusion 76 is similar in thickness to the effective thicknessof the hook and loop fastener components 44, 74 when compressed underthe force of a user's foot. The support protrusion 76 providesadditional support and more efficiently distributes the downward forceof the foot on the footbed 92 because the effective area of the fastenercomponents 44, 74 is greater. The support protrusion 76 thus minimizesthe uneven footbed 92 effect created by the hook and loop fastenercomponents 44, 74 by distributing the downward force of the foot over agreater area. It should be understood that many different combinationsof embedded hook or fastener components 44, 74 and support protrusions76 may be used to provide an even footbed surface 92.

Another feature of the present invention is disclosed in the embodimentshown in FIGS. 1-7. During use of the shoe 10 the foot and the outsole20 exert sheer forces on the wedge member 60 and the insole 30. Thesheer forces tend to increase as a function of increasing exertion onthe shoe 10, for example during athletic activity. The sheer forcescause the wedge member 60 to slip in a horizontal plane relative to theinsole 30. The wedge member 60 slips relative to the insole 30 in thehorizontal plane between the upper surface of the wedge member 62 andthe lower surface the insole 34. The hook and loop fastener system 45may provide some means of preventing lateral slippage of the wedgemember 60 relative to the insole 30, but this is limited to the extentof the effective sheer strength of hook and loop fastener 45 connection.

To further prevent lateral slipping of the wedge member 60 relative tothe insole 30 the wedge member 60 further includes stabilizationprotrusions 78 on the upper surface of the wedge member 62, and thelower surface of the insole 34 further includes voids 46 for receivingthe protrusions 78. The protrusions 78 and voids 46 provide aninterlocking system that resists sheer force and the tendency of thewedge member 60 to slip relative to the insole 30 during use of the shoe10.

Specifically referring to FIG. 3 an embodiment of the present inventionis shown wherein the wedge member 60 includes protrusions 78 on itsupper surface 62 and the lower surface of insole 34 includes receivingvoids 46 for the protrusions 78. The protrusions 78 are approximately1/16 of an inch in height as measured from the upper surface of thewedge member 62; however it is understood that the protrusions 78 can beof any height. FIG. 3 shows a clam shell configuration of the insole 30and the wedge member 60 so that the top surface of the wedge member 62is shown, and at the same time the bottom surface of the insole 34 isshown. Referring to FIG. 3, the bottom surface of the insole 34 containsvoids 46 for receiving the protrusions 78. The voids 46 are located insuch a manner as to receive the protrusions 78. The depth of the voids46 is preferably such that the voids 46 can completely receive theprotrusions 78. It is preferable that there is a receiving void 46 foreach protrusion 78.

The location of the protrusions 78 and associated receiving voids 46 canbe of any arrangement or configuration. For example, in the embodimentdisclosed in FIGS. 1-7 of the present invention the protrusions 78 arerectangular and arrayed on the upper surface 62 of the front area 70 ofthe wedge member 60.

FIG. 7 discloses another means for maintaining the position of the wedgemember 60 relative to the insole 30. The peripheral edge of the insole42 and the peripheral edge of the wedge member 72 include a series ofnotches 50, 82, wherein the notches 50, 82 are in an identical positionon the peripheral edge of the wedge member 72 and the peripheral edge ofthe insole 42, and the notches 50, 82 are of similar number. It ispreferred that the notches 50, 82 are only on a relatively small area ofthe peripheral edge 42, 72. It is further preferred that the notches 50,82 are in the forefoot area of the insole 40 and the front area of thewedge member, so that contour support for the heel on upper surface 32of the heel area 36 of the insole 30 is not compromised by notches 50,82.

The interior of the shoe cavity 28 preferably has a means of receivingthe notched peripheral edge portions of the insole 30 and the wedgemember 60. The receiving area may include opposing notches for receivingthe notches on the peripheral edge of the wedge member-insolecombination 90. When the wedge member-insole combination 90 is insertedinto the shoe cavity 28, the notched area and the receiving area form aconnection, preventing the wedge member-insole combination 90 fromslipping inside the shoe cavity 28.

Referring to FIG. 2, the insole includes ventilation channels in theinsole 48 to cool the shoe cavity 28. It is commonly known in the art touse ventilation channels 48 in the insole 30 to cool the shoe cavity 28and foot. In the present invention the wedge member 60 further includesventilation channels 80 for cooling the shoe cavity 28 and foot. It ispreferable that one or more of the insole ventilation channels 48 is influid communication with the one or more of the wedge member ventilationchannels 50 as to provide an effective means for cooling the shoe cavity12.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the insole ventilationchannels 48 are verticals holes in the insole 30. The holes pass fromthe upper surface of the insole 32 to the lower surface of the insole34. The wedge member insole ventilation channels 80 are also verticalholes in the wedge member 60. The vertical holes pass from the uppersurface of the wedge member 62 to the lower surface of the wedge member64. It is preferred that the vertical holes of the insole 30 have thesame configuration as the vertical holes in the wedge member 60 suchthat insole vertical holes 48 are in fluid communication with thevertical holes of the wedge member 50. To this end, the supportprotrusions 76, and stabilization protrusions 78, and means fordetachably connecting the wedge member 60 to the insole 30, and notchedperipheral edge 50, 82 and associated receiving area further serve as ameans of maintaining the insole ventilation channels 48 in fluidcommunication with the wedge member ventilation channels 80. It shouldfurther be understood that the ventilation channels 48, 80 may have anyconfiguration, and be in any position.

In some embodiments of the present invention is preferred that theinsole 30 is formed of a relatively softer foam composition, and thewedge member 60 is formed of a relatively harder foam composition. Asthe user exerts downward pressure on the footbed 92, the softer foam ofthe insole provides a comfortable cushion for the user's foot. Howeverthis force also compresses the insole 30, and reduces the thickness ofthe insole 30. The wedge member 60 is constructed of denser foam suchthat it does not compress to the extent that the insole 30 does. Thismaterial difference ensures the height of the footbed 92 relative to theoutsole 20 remains relatively constant, and thus the effective width ofthe footbed 92 remains constant. It should be understood that the insole30 and the wedge member 60 may be constructed from foam of any density,or from any other material as previously discussed.

Referring to FIG. 8-17, another embodiment of the present invention isshown. Referring specifically to FIG. 8, the fastener component 144 onthe lower surface of the insole 132 and the associated fastenercomponent 174 on the upper surface of the wedge member 162 isrectangular. The ventilation channels 148, 180 in this embodiment arenot in direct fluid communication; rather they are located in differentpositions in the insole 130, and the outsole 160. However, it should benoted that although the ventilation channel are not in direct fluidcommunication, they may still provide ventilation to the shoe cavity128.

Although the invention has been described with reference to a particulararrangement of parts, features and the like, these are not intended toexhaust all possible arrangement or features, and indeed many othermodifications and variations will be ascertainable to those of skill inthe art.

1. An article of footwear, comprising: an outsole; an upper affixed tosaid outsole, said upper and said outsole defining a shoe cavity forreceiving a user's foot, said shoe cavity having a width, said widthbeing greater in area of said shoe cavity proximate to said outsole, andsaid width being lesser in an area of said shoe cavity remote from saidoutsole; an insole located between said outsole and said upper, saidinsole having an upper surface and a lower surface, and said insolefurther having a heel area, a middle area, and a forefoot area; a wedgemember detachably affixed to said lower surface of said insole, saidwedge member having an upper surface and a lower surface, said wedgemember further having a rear area, a middle area, and a front area, andsaid wedge member having a thickness selected to position said forefootarea and said middle area of said insole at a selected height locationwithin said shoe cavity.
 2. The article of footwear of claim 1 whereinthe length of said wedge member as measured from said front area of saidwedge member to said rear area of said wedge member is between ⅓ to ⅞the length of said insole as measured from said forefoot area to saidheel area of said insole.
 3. The article of footwear of claim 2 whereinsaid front area of said wedge member is aligned with said forefoot areaof said insole.
 4. The article of footwear of claim 3 wherein saidinsole has a peripheral edge, and said insole peripheral edge forms aninsole peripheral edge shape, and said wedge member has a peripheraledge and said wedge member peripheral edge forms a wedge memberperipheral edge shape, and said insole peripheral edge shape is the sameshape as said wedge member peripheral edge shape along the length ofsaid wedge member.
 5. The article of footwear of claim 4 wherein saidwedge member has a greater thickness in said front area of said wedgemember and a lesser thickness in said rear area of said wedge member. 6.The article of footwear of claim 5 wherein the thickness of said frontarea of said wedge member is equal to the thickness of said middle areaof said wedge member, and the thickness of said rear area of said wedgemember is lesser than the thickness of said middle area and said frontarea of said wedge member.
 7. The article of footwear of claim 6 whereinsaid wedge member has a thickness ranging from 0.6 mm to 30.0 mm.
 8. Thearticle of footwear of claim 1 wherein said wedge member is detachablyaffixed to said insole by a hook and loop fastener system, said hook andloop system comprising a hook component, and a loop component, whereinone of said hook component and said loop component is affixed to saidlower surface of said insole, and wherein one of said hook component andsaid loop component is affixed to said upper surface of said wedgemember.
 9. The article of footwear of claim 8, wherein said wedge membercomprises one or more protrusions proximate to one or more of said hookcomponent and said loop component.
 10. The article of footwear of claim8, wherein said one or more of said hook component and said loopcomponent affixed to said upper surface of said wedge member is embeddedin said upper surface of said wedge member.
 11. The article of footwearof claim 8, wherein said one or more of said hook component and saidloop component affixed to said lower surface of said insole is embeddedin said lower surface of said insole.
 12. The article of footwear ofclaim 1 wherein said upper surface of said wedge member furthercomprises one or more protrusions, and said lower surface of said insolefurther comprises one or more cavities for receiving said one or morestabilization protrusions.
 13. The article of footwear of claim 1wherein said insole further comprises one or more ventilation channels,said wedge member further comprises one or more ventilation channels,and wherein said one or more insole ventilation channels is in fluidcommunication with said one or more wedge member ventilation channels.14. The article of footwear of claim 13 wherein said one or more insoleventilation channels are vertical holes, and wherein said one or morewedge member ventilation channels are vertical holes.
 15. The article offootwear of claim 1 wherein said insole is formed of a relatively softerfoam composition, and said wedge member is formed of a relatively harderfoam composition.
 16. The article of footwear of claim 1 wherein saidwedge member is detached from said insole, and removed from the shoe.17. The article of footwear of claim 4 wherein a segment of said insoleperipheral edge is notched, and an adjoining segment of said wedgemember peripheral edge is notched.
 18. The article of footwear of claim17, wherein said upper has a means of receiving said insole peripheraledge notches and for receiving said wedge member peripheral edgenotches.
 19. An article of footwear, comprising: an outsole; an upperaffixed to said outsole, said upper and said outsole defining a shoecavity for receiving a user's foot, said shoe cavity having a width,said width being greater in area of said shoe cavity proximate to saidoutsole, and said width being lesser in an area of said shoe cavityremote from said outsole; an insole located between said outsole andsaid upper, said insole having an upper surface and a lower surface, andsaid insole further having a heel area, a middle area, and a forefootarea, said insole further having peripheral edge, and said insoleperipheral edge having a peripheral edge shape; a wedge memberdetachably affixed to said lower surface of said insole, said wedgemember having an upper surface and a lower surface, said wedge memberfurther having a rear area, a middle area, and a front area, said wedgemember further having a length measured from said front area of saidwedge member to said rear area of said wedge member, wherein said wedgemember length is between ⅓ to ⅞ the length of said insole as measuredfrom said forefoot area to said heel area; said wedge member furtherhaving a peripheral edge, and said wedge member peripheral edge having aperipheral edge shape equivalent to said insole peripheral edge shapealong said length of said wedge member length; wherein said wedge memberhas a thickness selected to position said forefoot area and said middlearea of said insole at a selected height location within said shoecavity; wherein said upper surface of said wedge member is detachablyaffixed to said middle area of said lower surface of said insole; andwherein the thickness of said wedge member at said front area of saidwedge member is equal to the thickness of said middle area of said wedgemember, and the thickness of said rear area of said wedge member islesser than said thickness of said middle area and front area of saidwedge member, and thickness of said wedge member decreases from saidgreater thickness to said lesser thickness.
 20. The article of footwearof claim 19 wherein said wedge member is detachably affixed to saidinsole by a hook and loop fastener system.
 21. A method for providing anadjustable footbed system for footwear, comprising the steps of:providing an insole, said insole having an upper surface and a lowersurface, and said insole further having a heel area, a middle area, anda forefoot area; providing one or more wedge member for detachablyaffixing to said lower surface of said insole, said wedge member havingan upper surface and a lower surface, said wedge member further having arear area, a middle area, and a front area, and said wedge membershaving a range of different thicknesses selected to increase the heightof said insole; and providing a combination package for said insole andsaid wedge members.
 22. The method of claim 21 wherein the method forproviding and adjustable footbed system further includes said insole andsaid varying thickness wedge members for a left foot, and said insoleand said varying thickness wedge members for a right foot.
 23. Themethod of claim 21 further including the steps of: manufacturing saidwedge members components, and said insole wherein said wedge membercomponents and said insole are designed to fit a wide range of differentshoe models, and different shoe brands; and offering said combinationpackages for sale.